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Rule on Lead Dust Sets Off Scramble

Industry Groups Say Too Few Remodelers Will Be Certified in Time for April 22 Regulation Aimed at Protecting Children

By

Stephen Power

Updated March 27, 2010 12:01 a.m. ET

Professional home remodelers across the U.S. are scrambling to comply with a new federal regulation that supporters say will shield children from lead poisoning but which industry groups say will drive up costs, unfairly expose them to fines and litigation and potentially undercut Washington's efforts to promote energy efficiency.

The regulation, which takes effect next month and could affect millions of U.S. homes, seeks to reduce the amount of lead dust created during home renovations and repairs. Contractors who work in...